Jordan, Montana Population and Geography
Jordan is the county seat of Garfield County, located in eastern Montana along the Missouri River. According to the latest U.S. Census Bureau estimates, the city has a population of approximately 350 to 400 residents, making it one of the smallest county seats in the United States. The city serves as a regional hub for agriculture and energy in a sparsely populated area of the state U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts.
Garfield County, where Jordan is situated, has a total population of fewer than 1,200 people, reflecting the broader demographic trends of rural Montana. The city covers a small land area with an elevation of roughly 2,300 feet above sea level. Its economy is anchored by ranching, wheat farming, and oil and gas activity in the Williston Basin, which has driven periodic population shifts over the past decade Bureau of Labor Statistics Regional Data.
Jordan Montana Economy and Key Industries
The local economy depends heavily on agriculture, with cattle ranching and wheat production forming the backbone of the sector. Oil and gas extraction in the Bakken Formation has also influenced employment and income levels in Jordan and surrounding Garfield County. The city provides essential services, including a small hospital, schools, and local government offices, which support the regional population Forbes on Bakken Economic Impact.
Employment data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that agriculture, mining, and government are the leading occupational categories in the area. Median household income in Garfield County has fluctuated with commodity prices and energy sector activity. Small businesses, including equipment suppliers and service providers, make up the bulk of private-sector jobs in the city Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Living in Jordan Montana: Infrastructure and Services
Transportation and Utilities
Jordan is connected by Montana Highway 200, which links the city to larger towns such as Lewistown and Miles City. The city has a small municipal airport, and residents rely on personal vehicles for most daily travel. Utilities including electricity and water are managed by local providers, with broadband access expanding gradually across Garfield County Federal Communications Commission Broadband Map.
Education and Healthcare
Jordan Public Schools serve the local community, offering primary and secondary education in a small-district setting. Higher education access typically requires travel to larger cities such as Great Falls or Billings. The Garfield County Healthcare facility provides basic medical services, with more specialized care available in regional hospitals Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.
Cost of Living and Housing
Housing costs in Jordan are significantly below the national average, with median home prices reflecting the rural market. The cost of living index for Garfield County is low compared to metropolitan areas, driven by affordable housing and lower general expenses. This makes the area attractive for individuals seeking a low-cost rural lifestyle U.S. Census Bureau.